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Building

The Building Department promotes the general health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Penticton, to assist the citizens with the BC Building Code and building permit process, to work with developers and contractors in achieving their goals, and work with other City departments for a coordinated effort. Administration and compliance of the codes and standards adopted from the British Columbia Building Code that regulates building construction.

When is a Building Permit Required

Change the occupancy of an existing building, i.e. from office to retail.

Make interior renovations that may impact the direction of travel to an exit.

Repair a building envelope – commercial, multi family

Demolish or move a building.

Enclose your carport or change your garage to living space.

Add or relocate plumbing fixtures, fire alarm or fire sprinklers.

Pave a parking area where a storm drainage system is required.

Finish an existing basement.

Install a swimming pool or hot tub

Locate or add to a mobile home or manufactured home

Locate a temporary building.

Install a fireplace, solid fuel burning

Building Permits

General Information

The Building Department provides general information on the Building Bylaw, the B.C. Building Code, and other relevant standards. We can provide practical information on construction, plumbing, woodstove installation and other systems in buildings. Information Guidelines are available online.

The Building Department reviews building plans, specifications and associated documents (engineers' reports, truss plans, surveys etc.) to confirm compliance with the BC Building Code, Building Bylaw No. 94-45 [PDF - 58 KB] and other applicable standards. We issue building permits, and collect applicable securities and Development Cost Charges [PDF - 652 KB]. Building Officials visit the site at scheduled points during construction to ensure that construction conforms to the approved plans and conditions of the building permit, plus the Building Code.

Sign Permits

Plumbing Permits

A plumbing system may not be constructed, altered, extended, renewed or repaired unless a plumbing permit has been obtained for the work. Permits are not required to clear a stoppage in a drainage system, repair a leak in a water distribution system, replace a fixture without any change to the drainage system, or replace faucets. Permits are required to replace water heaters.

A single family home owner doing work on their own home can apply for a plumbing permit but must provide a isometric drawing of the proposed work as part of the plumbing permit application.